What is one of the phlebotomist's responsibilities in maintaining quality assurance in the laboratory?

The responsibility of ensuring correct specimen collection and handling is vital to maintaining quality assurance in the laboratory. This includes following specific protocols for collecting blood samples to prevent contamination and ensuring that specimens are preserved in a manner suitable for accurate testing. Proper handling and collection techniques, such as using the appropriate anticoagulants, correct labeling, and immediate transport to the laboratory, significantly impact the reliability of test results. By adhering to these protocols, phlebotomists contribute to the overall quality of laboratory operations, ensuring that the data produced from the specimens is valid and trustworthy, which is fundamental for patient care and diagnosis.

Other responsibilities, while important, do not specifically address the immediate quality assurance linked to specimen integrity during the collection process. For instance, while selecting equipment, training staff, and assessing patients are crucial for broader operational effectiveness, they do not directly pertain to the quality assurance measures related to the handling of specimens post-collection.